How to Remove Mould from Painted Walls

Do you know what mould is and How to remove mould from walls? It’s a type of fungus that usually appears as black, green, white, or slimy patches on surfaces. Common areas where mould thrives include bathrooms, kitchens, basements, damp walls, leaky roofs, or spaces with poor ventilation. It’s a common household problem that, if left untreated, can become severe.

Beyond making walls look dirty, mould can trigger allergies, respiratory issues, and even worsen asthma. It also damages paint and wall surfaces, causing long-term harm.

Don’t worry—we’ll walk you through the proper cleaning and preventive methods to keep your walls neat and mould-free.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• What causes mould on painted walls
• How to identify mould
• Precautions before removal
• A step-by-step guide to removing mould from painted walls
• Tips to prevent mould from returning
• FAQs on mould removal

What Causes Mould on Painted Walls?

1. Moisture and Humidity

Bathrooms, kitchens, and basements are prime spots for high moisture and humidity, making them breeding grounds for mould.

2. Poor Ventilation

When airflow is insufficient, humidity gets trapped indoors and encourages mould growth.

3. Water Leaks and Dampness

Leaking pipes, roofs, or windows often create damp patches behind painted walls, which promote mould.

How to Identify Mould

1. Mould vs. Dirt
Black spots on walls could be dust or dirt, but mould usually appears green or black with irregular shapes.

2. Mould vs. MildewMildew is flat, powdery, and grey or white. Mould, on the other hand, is fuzzy or slimy and can be green, black, or brown.

3. Warning Signs to Watch For

• Musty odour
• Spots that reappear after cleaning
• Paint discoloration

4. Precautions Before You Start Removing Mould

• Identify the source of moisture (leaks, seepage, etc.) and fix it first, or mould will return.
• Wear protective gear: gloves, safety goggles, and an N95 mask or respirator.
• Keep children and pets away from the area.
• Ventilate the space by opening windows and using fans.
• Cover nearby furniture, floors, curtains, and fabrics with plastic sheets.
• If mould covers more than 10 square feet or keeps returning, call a mould remediation expert.

Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Mould from Walls

Before starting, gather supplies: white vinegar, baking soda, bleach (use cautiously), spray bottles, a scrub brush or sponge, clean cloths, and warm water. Always test your cleaning method on a small hidden area first to avoid damaging paint.

1. Soap and Water

• Mix 1 litre of warm water with ½ to 1 spoon of liquid dish soap.
• Gently scrub the affected area.

2. Vinegar Method

• Fill a spray bottle with vinegar and spray it directly on the mould.
• Let it sit for at least 1 hour.
• Scrub with a brush, then spray again and leave for another 30 minutes.
• Rinse with lukewarm water.

3. Bleach Method

• Mix 1 cup of bleach with 1 gallon (3.7 litres) of water.
• Apply with a sponge and let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Scrub gently and rinse with clean water.
  Note: Use bleach only on white or light-coloured walls, as it may discolour paint.

4. Baking Soda Method

• Mix 2 teaspoons of baking soda with 2 cups of water.
• Spray the solution onto the mould, scrub, and wipe clean.
• Spray again lightly and let it dry to help prevent regrowth.
  (This method works faster than vinegar or bleach.)

5. Commercial Mould Removers
For severe growth, use store-bought mould cleaners, following label instructions.

6. Hydrogen Peroxide Solution

• Fill a spray bottle with 3% hydrogen peroxide.
• Spray the mould and leave for 10–15 minutes.
• Scrub and wipe clean with a rag.

Tips to Prevent Mould from Returning

1. Control Moisture and Humidity

• Maintain indoor humidity below 50% (use a dehumidifier if necessary).
• Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.

2. Fix Water Problems

• Repair leaks immediately.
• Ensure proper drainage around your house.

3. Regular Cleaning

• Use mould-resistant cleaners in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens.

4. Extra Protection

• Place moisture absorbers (silica gel, activated charcoal, or bowls of baking soda) in humid spots.
• Avoid overwatering indoor plants, as damp soil encourages mould.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need a professional to remove mould?
For small patches, you can handle it yourself. For larger areas or recurring mould, call a professional.

2. When should I call a mould removal service?
If mould covers a large area, keeps coming back, smells musty, or causes health issues like asthma or allergies, professional help is recommended.

3. How can I get rid of mould spores in the air naturally?
Improve ventilation, use air-purifying plants, and keep humidity levels below 50%.

MRF Vapocure Paints: For Colour, Care, and Lasting Protection

At MRF Vapocure Paints, we go beyond colour to deliver coatings that protect, preserve, and enhance your living spaces. Backed by decades of innovation in paint technology, our products are designed to withstand everyday challenges—whether it is guarding your walls against mould, resisting wear, or bringing long-lasting vibrancy to your interiors and exteriors.

We understand that a wall is not just a surface but part of your home’s character and comfort. That is why our mission is to combine durability with beauty, offering solutions that keep your walls cleaner, healthier, and easier to maintain.

Conclusion

Mould on painted walls isn’t just unsightly—it’s a health hazard that can damage your walls, paint, wood, and furniture. The good news is that with simple household solutions like vinegar, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide, you can remove mould effectively.

Remember: cleaning is only half the battle. Address root causes, fix moisture problems, and take preventive steps to keep mould from coming back.

If you’ve tried mould removal at home, share your experience and favourite method in the comments! If you found this article useful, save and share it with family and friends who might be struggling with mould on their painted walls.